The month of August typically marks the official start of election season for contests that are decided on the first Tuesday in November. In the 2026 election cycle, with less than 70 days until the general election and early voting on Oct. 15, political enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the campaign ramp-up. However, some individuals are dreading the entire process: campaign signs, commercial ads, rallies and opponent attack tactics. Understandably, they would like just to cast their votes and move on.
This election is called a midterm because it does not coincide with the presidential election cycle. Much attention is focused on the U.S. Senate and Congressional races, as they determine control of Congress and influence the agenda of the current presidential administration. In this case, it’s President Donald Trump, a polarizing figure. Arguably, there is a lot at stake, and I won't suggest one side of the political spectrum is better than the other; that's a personal choice for each voter. We will wait and see which candidates emerge and, hopefully, do so honorably.
While national races attract much attention, local elections, such as at-large school board seats and board of commissioners' seats, are equally important. The Cumberland County Commissioner District One seats were decided in the primary, with the Democratic nominees guaranteed positions due to the lack of Republican opposition. Cumberland County Commission District 1 is drawn to ensure Black voters have their preferred candidate. County racial dynamics have changed, and a set-aside district especially for Blacks may no longer be necessary, but that's a discussion for another time.
Over a dozen candidates are competing for one of the three at-large seats on the school board. This race is likely to be very competitive and could significantly influence school policy in Cumberland County for years to come.
Downtown on Dick Street, the Cumberland Board of Commissioners at-large race has similar implications. In both races, citizens must decide whether Cumberland County is heading in the right direction or if a change is needed. There's no doubt that a lot is at stake. The key question remains: will voters support the status quo, or will they choose to continue down the path led by the current majority on the board of commissioners, chaired by former city councilman and state senator Kirk deViere?
There can be no argument about the importance of this local vote. Your vote will shape the future of Cumberland County. North Carolina is one of the fastest-growing states in the nation; however, Cumberland County's growth is behind our peer counties in terms of where individuals are choosing to work and live.
Acknowledging our Tier 1 status as a poor community is not a slap against our legislature; rather, it's an admission that there is much work to do and that it will take the whole community's effort to change the dynamics. We are good, but we can be great. We have a lot of talented and resourceful citizens, so it might appear that we have the right people on the bus, just not in the right seats.
Let's make it happen.